Coyotes

Coyote Behavior

Coyote behavior is specific to the environment in which they live. In the wild where they are actively hunted and trapped, coyotes are generally elusive. In urban settings, coyotes can lose their fear of people and may threaten domestic pets.

In the Village, coyotes are comfortable in areas where there is appropriate food, water, shelter and space. Coyotes are more active hunters in the months of August through late November. Coyote pups are born April through May, and are taught to hunt at approximately 12 weeks. The litter size is determined by the local coyote population density and food availability. The pups disperse from the family at approximately 20 weeks of age. The disbursement of the young coyotes will often result in more coyote sightings.

Coyotes are generally nocturnal and sometimes diurnal, thus it is not unusual to observe coyotes during the day. Coyotes are opportunistic hunters and will adjust their diets depending on the food source that is available. As a result, people must be aware of their presence and take precautions to avoid conflict with them.

Coyote LawsState law (Colorado Revised Statute 33-6-107(9)) allows you to manage coyotes that are causing damage to your property. This management may only be performed on your property. Contact the Greenwood Village Police Department to find out what options are permitted.

C.R.S. 33-6-128 Damage or destruction of dens or nests – harassment of wildlife states: “unless permitted by the division (of Wildlife), it is unlawful for any person to willfully damage or destroy any wildlife den.”

C.R.S. 33-6-130 Explosives, toxicants, and poisons not to be used states: “unless permitted by law or by the division (of Wildlife), it is unlawful for any person to use toxicants, poisons, drugs, dynamite, explosives, or any stupefying substances for the purpose of hunting, taking or harassing any wildlife.”